A patient newly diagnosed with cancer is scheduled to consult with an oncologist in several days. What would be the best coping strategy for the nurse to recommend at this time?

• A. Go away for a few days to forget about the situation.
• B. Talk to family and friends about negative feelings.
• C. Seek information about the cancer and treatment options.
• D. Wait to see what the oncologist recommends for treatment.

Answer: (C)

When someone is newly diagnosed with cancer, uncertainty and fear are common, and feeling in control can make a big difference in how they cope. The best approach right now is to seek information about the cancer and the treatment options. Gathering accurate, reliable information helps reduce ambiguity, clarifies what the diagnosis means, and outlines what may lie ahead in terms of treatment, potential side effects, and timelines. This proactive step also prepares the patient to ask informed questions during the upcoming oncologist visit, participate in decisions about care, and identify what support they will need.

While talking with family and friends about feelings provides important emotional support, focusing on understanding the disease and options empowers the patient to engage with the care team and make choices aligned with their values. Waiting to be told what to do or retreating from the situation delays engagement and can increase anxiety by leaving questions unanswered or plans unclear.